The key opposed session also included development squad members Tariq Sims, Sione Mata'utia, James Roberts and a collection of local club players. Alex McKinnon and his fiancé Tiegan power were surprise visitors at training also, stopping in on their way from the Gold Coast down to Newcastle after a last-minute text message to Blues forward Trent Merrin, who is a close friend of McKinnon's.

Draw Widget - Round 1 - Maroons vs Blues

McKinnon sat in on the team's video session then watched on as Farah ran with just a light bandage on his right hand, which has not needed a splint or brace since having a plate and a screw inserted on Tuesday night.

Ennis looked to be heavily involved at hooker in attacking drills while Farah seemed to take more of a back seat but was still able to catch, pass and kick freely.

The Blues are likely to make a call publicly on who will fill the No.9 jersey in the Origin decider after the conclusion of the current NRL round on Monday night.

The Saturday and Sunday contact sessions are the two most crucial in the side's lead-up, with just a light captain's run on Tuesday to follow. Although the signs are encouraging for Farah, it would still be a remarkable – if not quite miraculous – feat to take his place in the side given how much a busy defender needs to use his hands to grip and wrestle in every tackle.